NRS-430V Grand Canyon University – Discuss the difference between a nursing conceptual model and a nursing theory.

QUESTION

Discuss the difference between a nursing conceptual model and a nursing theory.

Select a nursing theory used in health care and provide a concise summary of it.

Provide an example of how this nursing theory would be effective in managing client care.

ANSWER

Understanding the Difference Between Nursing Conceptual Models and Nursing Theories: An Exploration in Healthcare

Introduction

In the field of nursing, conceptual models and theories play crucial roles in guiding practice, research, and education. While both serve as frameworks for understanding and improving patient care, it is important to distinguish between nursing conceptual models and nursing theories. This essay aims to delve into the differences between these two concepts, highlight a notable nursing theory, and illustrate its effectiveness in managing client care.

Difference Between Nursing Conceptual Models and Nursing Theories

Nursing Conceptual Models

Nursing conceptual models, also known as conceptual frameworks or paradigms, provide a broad and overarching view of nursing as a discipline. They help to shape the overall understanding of nursing practice by identifying key concepts, relationships, and assumptions (Vieira et al., 2021). Conceptual models serve as the foundation for the development of nursing theories and provide a framework for organizing and interpreting data within the nursing profession. They provide a common language and shared understanding among nurses, aiding in effective communication and collaboration.

Nursing Theories

Nursing theories, on the other hand, are more specific and elaborate than conceptual models. Nursing theories are developed from conceptual models and are built upon empirical evidence and research. They focus on explaining and predicting phenomena related to nursing practice, patient care, and healthcare outcomes (Stolley, 2000). Nursing theories provide a systematic and organized approach to understanding and addressing nursing issues, as well as guiding evidence-based practice. They contribute to the professional growth of nurses, improve patient care, and advance nursing as a science.

A Notable Nursing Theory: Hildegard Peplau’s Theory of Interpersonal Relations

One prominent nursing theory widely utilized in healthcare is Hildegard Peplau’s Theory of Interpersonal Relations. Peplau, a nursing theorist and psychiatric nurse, developed this theory in the 1950s, emphasizing the significance of the nurse-patient relationship in promoting optimal health outcomes.

Summary of Peplau’s Theory

Peplau’s Theory of Interpersonal Relations revolves around the notion that nursing is a therapeutic interpersonal process. It outlines four sequential phases of the nurse-patient relationship: orientation, identification, exploitation, and resolution (Hagerty et al., 2017). Each phase encompasses specific goals and tasks that both the nurse and the patient should engage in to foster a therapeutic alliance. Peplau believed that through skilled communication, empathy, and understanding, nurses can empower patients to actively participate in their care, leading to improved overall well-being.

Application of Peplau’s Theory in Managing Client Care

Peplau’s theory can be highly effective in managing client care, especially in mental health and psychiatric settings. By implementing this theory, nurses can establish rapport, build trust, and facilitate effective communication with patients experiencing mental health challenges. For example, a nurse working with a patient diagnosed with depression can utilize Peplau’s theory to establish a therapeutic relationship. The orientation phase allows the nurse to gather pertinent information about the patient’s condition, while the identification phase helps the nurse and patient explore thoughts and feelings related to the illness. In the exploitation phase, the nurse collaborates with the patient to set goals and implement strategies for recovery. Finally, in the resolution phase, the nurse and patient reflect on progress and plan for continued self-care.

Conclusion

In conclusion, nursing conceptual models and nursing theories serve distinct but complementary purposes within the nursing profession. Conceptual models provide a broad framework for understanding nursing as a discipline, while nursing theories offer more specific explanations and predictions related to patient care. Hildegard Peplau’s Theory of Interpersonal Relations exemplifies the practical application of nursing theories in managing client care. By implementing this theory, nurses can enhance the nurse-patient relationship, promote patient engagement, and ultimately improve healthcare outcomes. Understanding and utilizing both conceptual models and theories are essential for nurses to provide high-quality, evidence-based care in diverse healthcare settings.

References 

Hagerty, T. J., Samuels, W. D., Norcini-Pala, A., & Gigliotti, E. (2017). Peplau’s Theory of Interpersonal Relations. Nursing Science Quarterly, 30(2), 160–167. https://doi.org/10.1177/0894318417693286 

Stolley, J. M. (2000, January 1). The Evolution of Nursing Research. PubMed Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6739074/ 

Vieira, J. P., Deodato, S., & Mendes, F. R. P. (2021). Conceptual Models of Nursing in Critical Care. Critical Care Research and Practice, 2021, 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/5583319